3 min read - by Mary Conway

Edibles, tinctures, topicals, capsules, where do you begin? CBD is offered in a wide range of delivery methods that it can quickly become overwhelming to navigate. Here are the top reasons on why tinctures can be the most effective delivery method for CBD.

The most important thing to consider when using CBD is how to maximize its bioavailability, or delivery. Tinctures that are formulated using nano-emulsion delivery technology, like Revibe Wellness, can be the most effective way to take CBD. Since CBD is hydrophobic (non-water soluble), it doesn't absorb into your bloodstream easily and needs to be stabilized in a carrier oil to help increase the amount that makes its way into your bloodstream. This is why you’ll often see CBD paired with an oily, fat-soluble substance, which aids in its absorption.

How you ingest the tincture plays a big role in its effectiveness as well. The proper way to take a tincture is to drop the oil under your tongue and allow it to sit for approximately 30 seconds before swallowing. This allows the oil to dissolve into your bloodstream sublingually, enhancing the amount of CBD that gets absorbed into your body.

What would happen if you swallow the oil without waiting 30 seconds? Although not bad for you, you’ll be limiting the amount of CBD that is delivered to your body.

This speaks to the importance of delivery method—the effects will be different depending on which delivery method you choose. Tinctures that are used incorrectly, where the oil is quickly swallowed, or use of CBD gummies, capsules, or beverages are subject to the first-pass removal by the liver, where CBD enters the bloodstream after it passes through the stomach and intestines.

“In some individuals, 80-90% of the CBD consumed orally is lost to metabolism before it ever makes its way into the bloodstream.”

When taking CBD orally a few things occur: a large amount of the CBD doesn't get absorbed in the process and the remaining amount takes longer to make its way into the bloodstream providing relief. In some individuals, 80-90% of the CBD consumed orally is lost during the first-pass effect to metabolism before it ever makes its way into the bloodstream. This leads to a significant loss in benefit (and money).

“The amount of CBD that makes its way into the bloodstream from tinctures can be nearly double that of the oral route, and in many studies, if used properly, it occurs faster and gives you better control."

With a tincture, placing the CBD oil under the tongue can bypass the stomach and undergo reduced metabolism by the liver during its first pass through the body. This way, more CBD makes its way through your body and you'll get more of the benefits. The amount of CBD that makes its way into the bloodstream from tinctures can be nearly double that of the oral route, and in many studies, if used properly, it occurs faster and gives you better control. That’s why many consider tinctures to be a better bang-for-your-buck.

Learn more about Revibe Tinctures. Or view additional resources in our Blog Section.